Preserving Benton County's Heritage Since 1949
Explore records, photographs, and stories from the people and places that shaped our community.
Search Our DatabaseWelcome to the Benton County Historical Society & Museum
Preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage of Benton County, Minnesota since 1949.
Upcoming Event
Stories Among the Stones: A Lantern Tour of the Benton County Cemetery
October 14, 2026 • 5:30–7:30 PM • 202 2nd Ave S, Sauk Rapids
Explore the cemetery by lantern light and uncover the stories of those who came before us — including victims of the 1886 Cyclone and early Benton County settlers. Post-tour social hour with refreshments and a viewing of our authentic 1880s funeral coach. Tickets are $10.
Sauk Rapids, Benton Co., Minn.
📅 Today in History
United States
• 1961 Peace Corps established
• 1970 Pres Nixon requests 1,000 new FBI agents for college campuses
Minnesota
• Minnesota covers 86,943 square miles.
• Minnesota has more common loons than any state except Alaska.
Benton County
• Jeremiah Russell arrived in 1849 to take charge of the American Fur Company trading post in Sauk Rapids.
• William A. Aitkin served as chairman of Benton County’s first board of commissioners.
📷 Picture of the Day
Click to view full size